India-Maldives relations are finally on the verge of improvement eight months after they soured. The strategic partnership will mean India reiterating its intentions to enhance the defense cooperation for the strengthening of the military setup of the Maldives, prepared to aid them in this exercise. This statement was made amid wide-ranging talks between Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Maldivian counterpart Mohammed Ghassan Maumoon who was on a three-day visit to India.
The talks, focused on maritime security, mark a new step in rebuilding the bilateral relations as ties between both nations frayed last year with India withdrawing military personnel from Maldives at the behest of China-friendly President Mohamed Muizzu.
Indian Defence Minister speaks on strategic partnership as India-Maldives relations improve
Speaking after the meeting, Rajnath Singh said that the Maldives was important for India under its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. “The Maldives holds a special position in our efforts to ensure stability and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region,” Singh said.
He also mentioned the October 2024 state visit by President Muizzu, which helped reset ties. The Joint Vision Document that was released during that visit is still guiding India-Maldives collaboration on economic and maritime security initiatives.
During the talks, the two ministers discussed a number of issues concerning their defense partnership, such as India’s offer to provide defense platforms and assets to help the Maldives build its security capabilities. This falls in line with India’s larger vision of SAGAR – Security, and Growth for All in the Region.
The visit of the Maldivian Defence Minister shows a shared commitment to closer collaboration. Both leaders shared a common vision for improving maritime security and economic stability in the region, which would set the stage for more robust ties.
With these developments, New Delhi is looking to strengthen its strategic presence in the Indian Ocean as it counters growing Chinese influence in the Maldives.
Also, see: Akshay Kumar’s niece Simar Bhatia all set to make her Bollywood debut